The cart rolled over the last dirt on the road before hitting the gray stone path leading to the city gates. Zoria was finally in sight.
Samuel sat near the back, watching the city grow larger as they approached. The towering stone walls stretched high, their strong structure built to withstand any attack. Above them, banners of the kingdom.
Jason stretched his arms and let out a satisfied sigh. "Finally. I was starting to miss civilization."
Elaine raised an eyebrow. "You? Miss civilization?"
Jason smirked. "Hey, I can enjoy a nice city every once in a while."
Marianne looked up at the tall walls. "Feels like we've been gone forever."
Lyra, who had been quiet most of the ride, leaned back slightly. "Nostalgia."
Everyone turned to look at her.
Elaine blinked. "Did you just say nostalgia?"
Jason let out a loud laugh. "Oh no, Lyra's getting sentimental!"
Sylvia chuckled. "Guess she does have emotions after all."
Lyra sighed. "I regret speaking."
The group laughed as they continued toward the gates. The road was busier now, with merchants, travelers, and adventurers all moving in and out of the city.
As they neared the entrance, two heavily armed guards stepped forward.
"Halt! State your business."
The merchant, still holding the reins, nodded. "Just passing through. Selling some goods in the market."
One of the guards looked over the group, eyes narrowing slightly. "And them?"
Samuel stood up. "We're adventurers returning from a mission."
The guards exchanged glances. It was standard procedure to check anyone entering the city, so they began their search.
One guard walked up to Elaine. "Weapons?"
Elaine nodded and tapped the sword on her waist. "Right here."
The guard gave a quick glance and moved to Marianne and Sylvia, checking their gear as well.
When they got to Jason, one of the guards suddenly stiffened. "Wait… you're Jason, aren't you?"
Jason grinned. "The one and only."
The guards immediately straightened up. "Sir, we didn't realize! We were just following protocol."
Jason waved them off. "Relax, you're just doing your job."
The guard looked relieved. "Still, it's an honor, sir."
Elaine crossed her arms. "What, no special treatment for us?"
The guard blinked. "Uh… sorry, miss?"
Jason laughed. "Don't mind her, she's just jealous."
Elaine rolled her eyes.
Once the inspection was done, the guards stepped aside. "You're all clear. Welcome back to Zoria."
The moment they passed through the city gates, Marianne let out a breath and turned to Jason. "You know… when we first saw you in the palace, you were so cool."
Elaine nodded. "Yeah, we thought you were this powerful, serious soldier."
Sylvia smirked. "And now we know the truth."
Jason placed a hand over his heart. "Are you saying I'm not cool?"
Elaine grinned. "Not even a little."
Jason gasped dramatically. "This is betrayal."
The group burst into laughter as they ride deeper into the city.
Zoria was just as lively as ever streets filled with vendors shouting about their goods, adventurers discussing their latest missions, and people going about their daily lives. It was good to be back.